Food Safety Alert

HAR Maspeth Corp. of Maspeth, NY, is recalling its 2 ounce and 4 ounce packages of Jinga “Pan Fried Anchovies” due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy persons may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

The recalled Jinga “Pan Fried Anchovies” were distributed nationwide in retail stores and through mail orders. The product comes in a 2 ounce and 4 ounce, clear plastic packages marked with an expiration date of “9/28/2014” stamped on the top.

An alleged illness has been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The recall was initiated after routine sampling by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes.

Customers who have purchased 2 ounce and 4 ounce packages of Jinga “Pan Fried Anchovies” are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-718-706-9300.